Vericel (US:VCEL)2025-07-31 13:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue increased by 20% in the second quarter, reaching $63.2 million, with gross margin expanding over 400 basis points to 74% [5][12][16] - Adjusted EBITDA rose by 112% year-over-year to over $13.4 million, representing 21% of revenue, an increase of more than 900 basis points compared to the previous year [5][17] - Net loss narrowed to $600,000 or $0.01 per share, an improvement of over $4 million compared to the prior year [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - MACI generated record revenue of nearly $54 million, reflecting a 21% increase year-over-year and 15% sequential growth [5][12] - Epicel revenue was $8.6 million, representing an 11% growth year-over-year, with biopsies increasing nearly 40% [14][15] - NexoBrid revenue reached $1.2 million, showing a 52% growth compared to the prior year [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - MACI biopsy growth rates outpaced implant growth, with expectations for convergence in the second half of the year [6][7] - The treatment of small femoral condyle defects increased by 40% year-over-year, indicating strong market potential [7][8] - Epicel's performance rebounded with the highest monthly biopsies recorded in June [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to expand its MACI sales force from 76 to approximately 100 territories to support anticipated growth [8][10] - FDA clearance for the Phase III MACI Ankle clinical study was received, representing a significant long-term growth opportunity [10][11] - The company is focused on maintaining strong revenue and profitability growth while preparing for international expansion, particularly in Europe [85] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strong underlying business fundamentals and growth drivers for MACI and burn care products [5][20] - The company is optimistic about the third quarter, citing strong momentum from both MACI and burn care products [10][20] - Management acknowledged challenges in predicting Epicel revenue due to patient health-related issues but remains hopeful for improved performance [39][40] Other Important Information - The company ended the second quarter with approximately $164 million in cash and investments and no debt [17] - The company is not assuming additional NexoBrid revenue related to the BARDA RFP process but sees potential for incremental revenue in the fourth quarter [18][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What impacted MACI growth in Q2? - Management noted that Q2 revenue was slightly below expectations due to timing issues with some implants moving into July, but overall metrics remain strong [24][25] Question: How many arthrobiopsies have converted to MACI? - Management did not disclose specific conversion rates but indicated that trends are in line with expectations [28][29] Question: What is the new reality for Epicel guidance? - Management explained that while biopsies were up significantly, patient health issues have affected revenue, leading to a more conservative guidance for the second half of the year [32][34] Question: Can you discuss the BARDA RFP? - Management confirmed that the RFP is in the public domain, with proposals due in late August, and initial procurement would be for 2,750 units [92][93]